December 2017 Newsletter

Introduction

Our weather has been fairly mild so far. Cold nights and warm days has made being on the water pleasant. The water temp was 55 degrees a couple days before Thanksgiving. The lake has turned over a couple of weeks ago and fishing should be improving. We hope you get a chance to get out there and catch a few before the weather really turns for the worst.

If you have or haven’t hung up your muskie gear for the year we want to stop and take a moment to reflect on the good fishing days we have had, think about the plans for next year and hug your family and friends and thank them for allowing you to fish and be the person you are. We want to wish everyone a safe and joyous holiday and we hope to see you again on the water in 2018.

We received a copy of the below letter from the IMA (Illinois Muskie Alliance). The letter highlights a critical shortfall in staff at the Illinois Division of Fisheries. Please and consider sending a letter of your own.

Recent Events

November 11th, we had our Veteran’s day Outing. We had 9 vets that came out and enjoyed time on the water. Fishing was slow but the weather was very good for this time of year. Ray and Kattie Wheelock did a very good job of cooking a great meal. Ken Ryder did a nice job as Master of Ceremonies. I hope we have more volunteers next year to take out more vets. Veterans have sacrificed a lot to keep our freedoms and our way of life.

Upcoming Events

December 9, 10 Shawnee Muskie Hunters Winter Trolling Outing, Kinkaid Lake

January 5th, 6th and 7th Lets Go Fishing Show Collinsville Convention Center. Volunteers needed to man the booth all 3 days and help to set up and tear down. Contact Walt Krause to volunteer.

January 6th, IMA meeting Chicago: Induction of the following into the Illinois Hall of Fame. Our President, Jim Beaty, one of our funding chapter members, Al Nutty, and our local ILDNR Biologist, Shawn Hirst.

Tidbits

One of our members passed away a while back. His name was Doug Tallman. His wife contacted Walt and ask for some help in parting ways with his muskie gear. She did not know the best way to do that. It was decided that selling 50 raffle tickets at $20 each would be the best way to do it. All the proceeds go to his wife. Contact Ken or Walt for tickets. Only 50 will be sold and winner takes all.

The raffle drawing for the Lake St. Clair outing, with the Charter Guide Boat of Fin's and Grins, for the upcoming season 2018, has been drawn. The lucky winner is Jim "Lucky" Beaty. He will make arrangements with Jason to schedule his outing. Once again, there are three options: Trolling or Casting for Muskie as well as the Walleye trip.

The Shawnee Muskie Hunters participates in eScrip, a fundraising program where participating business partners contribute a percentage of your purchases to our club. If you are interested there is more information on our website here: http://www.shawneemuskiehunters.org/about-our- club/escrip

We still have Shawnee Muskie Hunter Challenge coins for sale. Contact John Wright if you would like one.

Trip Report

If you would like to submit a trip report email Dan Johnson ([email protected]). It would be great to have trip reports from the Gil Hamm or Lake St. Clair outings. If you attended either of these outings consider sending in a report. It doesn’t have to be long.

IMTT Information

November 26, 2017

It’s registration season for the upcoming 2018 Illinois Muskie Tournament Trail, or as you might recognize the name better as IMTT.

The first question you may have is, what is the IMTT? The IMTT is simply an Illinois Not-For-Profit Corporation uniquely set up through the cooperation of existing Muskie clubs throughout the state. Yes, the Shawnee Muskie Hunters are one on these clubs. The organization’s mission is to promote interaction and camaraderie among Muskie fishermen in the State of Illinois and help maintain and expand the state’s fishery. To achieve this mission the IMTT organizes an annual “Trail” of Muskie fishing tournaments. Each participating club throughout the state hosts one or more tournaments.

Annual dues for the IMTT are $30 and run from Jan 1 to Dec 31 each year. Registration may be paid with via paypal on the website, www.illmuskie.com, or by contacting Kyle Kroening at [email protected].

Completed registrations may also be mailed to: Kyle Kroening 2107 Candlestick Lane Marion, IL 62959

A portion of the entry fees from each IMTT administered tournament are set aside for the fishery. These entry fees along with membership dues and monies raised through other fundraising activities are used to support and expand the fishery. The IMTT participates in the Illini Muskies Alliance and assists the Illinois Department of Natural Resources through the purchase of equipment and materials for the Jake Wolf Memorial Hatchery and the Fisheries Division. The IMTT also administers a youth fishing program to encourage young anglers to participate and grow in the sport. In 2012, the IMTT awarded its first annual scholarship to a Fishery Biologist major to help preserve our angling resource for future generations.

What else does the IMTT do? Along with the fisheries support, tournament trail, youth programs, and scholarship opportunities, the IMTT also is a proud sponsor and contributor to the Shawnee Clubs High School tournament and Youth Day Activities.

Additional information is available on the IMTT website, www.illmuskie.com. Opportunities to support and help out are available, so take a look. Your registration is appreciated and supports the great fisheries of Illinois.

Submitted by fellow Shawnee Muskie Hunter and IMTT Treasurer

Kyle Kroening +505 252 0693 [email protected]

IMA Information

Status of the Illinois Muskie Fishery-2017 By Ray Thompson Chairman-Illini Muskies Alliance

The following article is based on the Status of Muskie Fishery in Illinois produced by various regional biologists in Illinois. It has been updated to include muskie stockings by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, out of state sources and donated fingerlings purchased by the member organizations of the Illini Muskies Alliance. There is a minimum 36” size limit on all lakes unless noted. All live bait greater than 8 inches must be rigged with a quick set rig.

Key: F=fry (1-2 inches) FL= purchased by the Flatlanders Chapter of Muskies, Inc. HP=horsepower limit IL=Illinois (typical state abbreviation) IMA=purchased by the Illini Muskies Alliance member organizations INHS=Illinois Natural History Survey (research) MDS=Upper Mississippi River Drainage strain (Leech Lake) MV=purchased by the Mississippi Valley Chapter of Muskies, Inc. ODS=Ohio Drainage System strain OW=overwintered (2-year old fish) PGG=fish provided for the Project Green Gene study QCHH=purchased by the Quad County Hawg Hunters Chapter of Muskies, Inc. SLR=St. Lawrence River strain SOB=purchased by the South of the Border Chapter of Muskies, Inc. SMH=purchased by the Shawnee Muskie Hunters Chapter of Muskies, Inc. SSMH=purchased by the South Side Muskie Hawks Chapter of Muskies, Inc. T=tigers (muskie/northern pike hybrid) TM=trolling motors only UF=user fee

Argyle-Situated within the 1,740 acre Argyle Lake State Park, it is located one mile north of Colchester in McDonough County with access off County Highway 8. Argyle Lake is 92.7 acres in size and has a maximum depth of 34.6 feet. The shoreline length is 5.5 miles and a centerline length of slightly over 1 mile. The lake basin is steep-sided, except in the upper two arms where sedimentation has created a flat, shallow bottom. A boat ramp, concession building and boat rentals are located in the northwest arm of the lake. Other facilities provided at Argyle Lake State Park include: camping, picnic areas and hiking trails. Argyle Lake was constructed in 1949 with funding from the licensed anglers of the state of Illinois A total of 12 muskie were sampled by the spring trap-net survey in 2016. These fish ranged from 18 to 41 inches long. The body condition of these fish was low. The high percentage of male fish appears to have lowered this value in 2016. Originally stocked with tiger (hybrid) muskies in 1989, natural muskie stocking began in 2000. A low density of quality size muskie are present. Jake Wolf stocked 93 muskie at 12.5 inches in 2017. An annual stocking is now scheduled to maintain a low density of healthy muskie. In 2017, the muskie harvest regulation was changed from the statewide 1 fish daily harvest at a 36-inch minimum size, to a 42-inch minimum and 1 fish per day harvest limit. The goal of the new regulation is to protect the fish for at least 1 more year from angler harvest. No horsepower limit with a “no wake” restriction. Swimming is not permitted. Banner Marsh- Located in Central Illinois, the 5,524 acre Banner Marsh State Fish and Wildlife Area lies adjacent to the Illinois River, 4 miles north of Banner, Illinois, along Route 24. The former bottomland lake and marsh was leveed and drained for agricultural practice from 1910 through 1958. From 1958 to1974 approximately 90 percent of the site was strip-mined for coal. The strip-mined areas have since been reclaimed and purchased by the State of Illinois. Under the management of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (1978 - present) the primary objective for the site is to establish a freshwater marsh providing fish and wildlife habitat in the Illinois River Valley. Banner Marsh SFWA was characterized by narrow strip pits and upland ponds, but in 1994 the hydrology changed due to the intentional cessation of pumping operations in the levee district. The water level rose approximately 7 feet (435 M.S.L.) due mainly to groundwater recharge by seepage under the existing 100 year flood-tight levee with the Illinois River. The total surface water acreage for the site increased from 530 acres to approximately 2400 acres and created a large vegetated littoral zone. Johnson-Johnson Lake is the largest lake in the Banner Marsh SFWA at over 600 surface acres. It is composed of a maze of final cut lakes interconnected by ditches to large shallow pond areas. The shallow areas (less than 6 feet) compose approximately 400 acres of flooded brush and diverse aquatic vegetation. The maximum water depth is 64 feet. Water clarity often exceeds 8 feet in the summer. The main access area has a concrete boat ramp, 50 vehicle and trailer parking lot, restrooms and a handicap accessible fishing pier. The lake has a 25 HP motor limit. The site is open 24 hours a day, except for the Central Zone Duck Season, at which time only shoreline fishing is allowed after 1 p.m. A total of 51 muskie were sampled by the spring trap-net survey in 2016. These fish ranged from 25.6 to 46.5 inches long. The body condition of these fish was good. Originally stocked in 2001, in 2017 602-12.4 inch muskie were stocked. A triennial stocking is now scheduled to maintain a moderate density of healthy muskie. There is a 42-inch minimum size on muskie. Banner Marsh-Shovel- Shovel Lake (approximately 200 acres) is the third largest water area at the site. It is a "T" shaped final cut lake with limited habitat in the boat ramp arm. The opposite arm which lies adjacent to the Copperas Creek levee, contains points, flooded brush, beaver lodges, and diverse aquatic vegetation. The water acreage added in 2001 consists of very large littoral zones around deep water pockets. The maximum water depth is 65 feet. The average water clarity in the summer is often over 12 feet. The Bell’s Landing access area has a concrete boat ramp, 25 vehicle and trailer parking lot and restrooms. The lake has a 25 HP motor limit. The site is open 24 hours a day, except for the Central Zone Duck Season. At which time only shoreline fishing is allowed after 1 p.m. 25 muskie were sampled in the spring trap-net survey in 2016. The collected fish ranged from 28.3 to 43 inches. The first stocking of muskie was in 1999. In 2017, 220-12.4 inch muskie were stocked. The Illinois (Jake Wolf) muskie strain appears to be doing good in this lake. There is a 42-inch minimum size on muskie. Banner Marsh-Wheel-At approximately 350 acres, Wheel is a deep final cut lake which is connected to a large series of strip mine wheel cut lakes. The wheel cut portion contains points, islands, flooded brush and diverse aquatic vegetation, while the final cut portion has little littoral zone and gravel substrate. The maximum water depth is 60 feet. Water clarity averages 4 feet in the summer. The East Point access area has a concrete boat ramp, 50 vehicle and trailer parking lot, restrooms and a picnic pavilion. The lake has a 25 HP motor limit. The site is open 24 hours a day, except for the Central Zone Duck Season. At which time only shoreline fishing is allowed after 1 p.m. Muskie have been stocked annually in Wheel lake since 1996. In 2017, 352-12.4 inch muskie were stocked. In 2014, 39 fish were sampled by spring trap-netting and 3 by fall electrofishing. The maximum length was 46 inches. The collection rate was 2.4 fish per net night. Illinois (Jake Wolf) muskie strain appears to be doing very good in this lake. There is a 42-inch minimum size on muskie. Busse-Located south of Higgins Rd, east of Route 53 near Elk Grove Village, Illinois. Busse Lake is 457 acres (Main Pool 325 acres, South Pool 115 acres, North Pool 17 acres); maximum depth 19 feet; average depth 5.5 feet. The lake was created in 1978 when Salt Creek was dug and dammed. The Main Pool and South Pool are deeper lakes that support excellent sport fish populations. Fishing piers, handicap access, boat/kayak rentals, live bait/tackle are available throughout the summer from a concessionaire, concrete boat launches are available in the two larger impoundments and a paved bike path with numerous parking areas makes accessing the lakes very easy. Boats with electric motors are allowed however gas motors must be removed. No fish cleaning station is available. Supplemental surveys to assess muskie growth, relocate muskie from below the spillway, and to collect samples requested by IEPA to update consumption advisories occur regularly. Fish surveys evaluating the overall fishery are regularly undertaken by either IDNR or FPDCC Fisheries Staff. Muskie stockings began in the Main Pool in 2007; 100 of the original 800 fingerlings were implanted with Passive Integrated Transponder (PIT) tags to track growth over time, in a separate project the FPDCC has implanted several radio transmitters into fish to track movement. Busse was last stocked with 840-11.9 inch muskie in 2015. In 2015, 26 muskie were “rescued” below the spillway and returned to the boat launch in the Main Pool; fish ranged in length from 22.8 to 36 inches long; to date the largest muskie reported measured 42 inches long. There is a 36-inch minimum size limit on muskie at this lake. Canton- Located 1 mile northeast of the town of Canton in Fulton County, Canton Lake is a 250-acre lake constructed in 1939 and was the primary potable water source for the city of Canton. Canton Lake; has a maximum depth of 35 feet and an average depth of 14 feet. This water reservoir holds approximately 3,500 acre feet of water with 7.2 miles of shoreline. The 9,728 acre watershed is 82% agricultural, 12% woodland, and 6% municipal and residential. Historical water quality samples revealed a secchi disk average of 23 inches, a pH of 8.3, and total alkalinity of 135 mg/L. No submerged rooted aquatic vegetation is present in Canton Lake. In September of 1964, the lake was rotenoned and restocked. Due to a combination of intentional, unintentional and unauthorized fish stocking the fish community of the lake has changed over time. The overall sport fishery of Canton Lake has been at an average level over the last 20 years. The high density carp population and sedimentation problem have a direct negative effect of the rooted, submerged aquatic plants. With turbid water conditions, the carp thrive and continue the poor water quality, thus, affecting the food chain and sport fish population. The addition of gizzard shad and yellow bass have made Canton Lake very difficult to manage for quality. Conduct annual surveys to measure trends in fishery population dynamics, angling regulations and progress toward management goals. In the spring continue the annual population surveys, utilizing trap-nets and boat electrofishing. In 1987 Canton was stocked with tiger (hybrid) muskie. Starting in 2000, pure muskie have been stocked semiannually. In 2017 Canton received 255-12.5 inch muskies. In 2016, 13 muskie were sampled in the spring trap-net survey. They ranged from 16.5 to 38.2 inches in length and were in excellent body condition. The shad forage base will provide fast growth in Canton Lake. The main mortality in Canton Lake for muskie will probably be escapement over the spillway during annual high water events. There is a 42-inch minimum size limit on muskie at this lake. Canvasback-Located in Pyramid State Park south of Pinckneyville in Perry County. Canvasback Lake is a strip cut lake located on the Denmark Section of Pyramid State Park. The Denmark Section is accessed off the Pyatt-Cutler Road. From State Route 127 head west on Pyatt-Cutler Road. About 7 miles west of Pyramid State Park turn south into the Denmark Section. Canvasback Lake has a 10 HP motor limit. Facilities at this 60-acre lake include a concrete boat launch, floating dock, and bathrooms. As a result of high water conductivity, electrofishing is not an effective sampling tool at this lake. All information is based on spring trap-netting surveys. IDNR collected one 36-inch muskie from this lake in the spring of 2014. If you catch a tagged MUE from Canvasback Lake DO NOT REMOVE THE TAG. Please contact Shawn Hirst, IDNR Fisheries Biologist by phone at 618-687-4546 or email at [email protected] with the following information: date of catch, length of muskie, 5-digit tag number. From November 1 through February 28 fishing is allowed in designated areas only, and fishing hours are from ½ hour before sunrise to 2 PM. Originally stocked in 2002 with muskie, this lake was last stocked with 36-13-inch long muskie in 2017. There is a 36- inch minimum size limit on muskie at this lake. Carlton-Located in the Morrison Rockwood State Park in Whiteside Co., this 70 acre lake has an average depth of 11.25 feet, maximum depth of 27 feet and a shoreline length of 2.8 miles. The park offers a boat ramp, boat rentals, picnicking and camping. There is a 10 HP limit on the lake. Lake Carlton is a watershed impoundment constructed in 1969 by building a 38 foot high, 1,800 foot long earthen dam across the feeder stream. The lake was named in the memory of L. Carlton Anderson, a local citizen and civic leader. Originally stocked with muskie in 1987, this lake was last stocked with 77-12.4-inch long muskie in 2017. There is a 36- inch minimum size limit on muskie at this lake. Diamond-Located in northeastern Illinois, within the Village of Mundelein, IL in Lake County, Diamond Lake is a glacial origin lake, the majority of the lake bottom is owned by the Mundelein Park District which it acquired in the late 1960’s. Water exits the lake in the southeastern portion of the lake via a spillway which flows underground until it connects to Indian Creek. Diamond Lake is 153 acres; shoreline length 5.9 miles; watershed 686 acres (5 to 1); maximum depth 23 feet; average depth 7.6 feet. There are several ramps around the lake but only one open to the public (fee required). It is a single, concrete boat ramp on the south-east end of the lake near the beach. No fishing boat rentals are available; a private bait shop is located 1 mile south of the ramp. No fish cleaning facilities are available. Occasional fish surveys are conducted to evaluate stocking success and changes in the fishery. Herbicides are occasionally applied in high use areas to maintain recreational boat access because the shoreline is generally shallow and Eurasian watermilfoil is present in the system. Originally stocked in the 70’s, Diamond Lake has not received muskie fingerlings until recently. It was stocked with 300-11.8 inch muskies in 2014 and 301-11.9 inch muskies in 2015. There is a 36-inch minimum size limit on muskie in this lake.

Double T- The Double T State Fish and Wildlife Area is located 3 miles north west of Canton in Fulton County. The concrete boat ramp is accessible from Cypress Road. Double T Lake is a 64 surface acre lake that was formed in 1983 by coal mining. This site was obtained by the State of Illinois in September 2001. The maximum depth of the lake is approximately 65 feet. The lake is a long and linear final cut strip-mine that form the shape of a double T. The basin topography is very steep shorelines with a fringe of submerged aquatic plants. Woody structure is limited to several beaver houses and the eastern end has the input of Put Creek. Water clarity has varied from 2 feet to over 7 feet. The fish biologist completes an annual survey in the spring utilizing D.C. electrofishing and trap-netting to sample a target as many other sportfish as available. The sport fishery of Double T Lake is highlighted by a developing muskie population. Originally stocked with tigers (hybrid) muskies in 1987, pure muskie have been stocked since 2002 at a rate of up to 3 fish per acre at 10 to 14 inches long. In 2017 Double T received 66-12.5 inch naturals. In 2016, 18 muskie were collected by spring trap- nets. These fish ranged in size from 25.6 to 37.8 inches long. The average body condition was average. Double T Lake has a strong population of carp and gizzard shad with small numbers of green sunfish, bluntnose minnows and yellow bullheads present. There is a 42-inch minimum size limit on muskie at this lake. Evergreen-Located approximately 15 miles North of Bloomington IL, Evergreen Lake is easily accessible by taking I-39 North to the Lake Bloomington/Evergreen Lake Exit, then proceeding west on the Lake Bloomington Road (2500N). Evergreen Lake was built in 1970 to serve as a secondary water source for the City of Bloomington. The lake is owned by the City of Bloomington and is managed by the McLean County Department of Parks and Recreation. Evergreen Lake is part of Comlara County Park. The lake is 925 acres and has an average depth of 19.7 feet and a maximum depth of 50 feet. County watercraft registration is required. There are 2 boat launches on the lake and one canoe launch. Comlara County Park offers 137 campsites, a swimming beach, and showers. Evergreen Lake was first stocked with muskie in 1990. During the most recent spring netting survey, 6.2 muskie per net-night were collected with 20 net-nights of effort and the eleven-survey average is 4.1 muskie per net-night. Approximately 56% of the muskie collected were large than 38 inches and 17% were larger than 42 inches. Muskie were collected over the current state record during spring netting surveys in 2006, 2007, and 2010. Evergreen has an excellent muskie fishery. In 2017 Evergreen received 927-12.4 inch muskie. There is a 48-inch minimum size limit on muskie. Fox Chain of Lakes- Located 50 miles northwest of Chicago off Ill. Rt. 173 and U.S. Rt. 12 near the cities of Antioch, Fox Lake and McHenry. The Fox Chain O’ Lakes are unique from other major water bodies in the state in that they were formed by glaciers thousands of years ago and their depth is maintained by a lock and dam system south of McHenry. The system is composed of 9 major lakes interconnected by channels, the Fox Chain O’ Lakes is classified as a public navigable waterway managed under the authority of the Department of Natural Resources and the Fox Waterway Agency to provide a variety of water oriented recreational activities. Total - 7110.0 acres above the Stratton Dam, 1100 acres between the Algonquin and Stratton dams, Lake Catherine 149.5 acres; Channel Lake 348.5 acres; Lake Marie 585.0 acres; Bluff Lake 92.4 acres; Grass Lake 1451.4 acres; Petite Lake 234.5 acres; Fox/Nippersink Lake 2376.8 acres; Pistakee Lake 1715.7 acres. State owned FREE boat ramps available at Chain O Lakes State Park, private (for fee) launches available throughout the system. Concessions are available at Chain O Lakes State Park and the McHenry Dam offering fishing boat and motor rental, canoe/kayak rentals, live bait, tackle, ice, food, and soft drinks. Boat rentals, restaurants, bait/tackle and guide services are available via private vendors throughout the system.

Fish cleaning facilities are NOT available in State Parks or at the McHenry Dam. The Division of Fisheries has been actively monitoring the status of Fox Chain O’ Lakes fishery for over 60 years (1954 to present). We usually collect between 35 and 40 fish species during our Biennial fish surveys. Three fish species have voluntarily become established in the Fox Chain O Lakes; yellow bass (1973, then experienced significant die-offs in 1995 and 1997), freshwater drum (1992) and gizzard shad (2007). The State owns management jurisdiction for the Chain O Lakes and allows homeowners to treat vegetation in front of their homes by hiring a Licensed Commercial Applicator and obtaining a Letter of Permission (LOP) from the Division of Fisheries. The Fox Chain is annually stocked with around 3000 muskie fingerlings between State and Club Donations. Originally stocked with muskies in 1988 the Fox Chain received 17-10,742-5 inch, 2,008-12.4 inch and 450-12-14 inch fingerlings in 2017. Muskie are managed for high catch rates and the longevity of the stocking program has allowed females to grow LARGE. The average muskie is 36-inch-long but fish up to 51” are caught and regularly reported. In the Chain, it takes at least 12 years for a muskie to reach 48” (legal length) and about 15 years to reach 51 inches+. Male muskie occasionally grow beyond 40” long but females easily grow through it and are the longest fish in a system. Muskie are surveyed each year, in spring nets, to track tagged fish and growth. Females weighing over 30 lbs. are regularly collected with our largest ever weighing 36.2 lbs (in 2007). There are some really nice fish in the Chain. There is a 48-inch minimum size limit on muskie in this lake.

Fulton Co. Conservation Area- Located in the Fulton County Camping and Recreation Area, 1.5 miles south of St. David, Illinois. The Fulton County Board leases the 440 acres of land, which contains 12 lakes and 134 acres of surface water from the metropolitan sanitary district of greater Chicago. The Illinois Department of Conservation signed a cooperative fisheries management agreement with Fulton County for the lakes in 1985 and then continued this agreement as IDNR in 1995 to the present.

Lake #3- Lake #3 has a surface area of 45.6 acres, maximum depth of 20 feet, with an average depth of 10.0 feet. The shoreline length is 6.3 miles with a watershed of 450 acres. The lake is a long, narrow final cut with an aquatic vegetation coverage of less than 10 percent of the surface. The major aquatic vegetation consists of coontail, curlyleaf pondweed, American pondweed, filamentous algae and duckweed. Due to the deteriorated condition of the sport fishery, a complete removal of the existing fishery was completed on April 20, 1987. Originally stocked with tigers (hybrid) in 1987, natural muskie stocking began in 2007. In 2017, this lake received 90-12.5 inch muskie. A low-density population of muskie has been created in this lake with fish over 40 inches present. In Lake #3, four muskie from 24 to 42 inches were sampled by electrofishing in 2014. There is a 36-inch minimum size limit on muskie in this lake.

Lake #4- Lake #4 has a surface area of 18.5 acres, maximum depth of 33 feet, with an average depth of 16.51 feet. The shoreline length is 2.1 miles with a watershed of 450 acres. The lake is a long, narrow final cut with an aquatic vegetation coverage of less than 5 percent of the surface. The major aquatic vegetation consists of coontail, curlyleaf pondweed, American pondweed, brittle naiad, water milfoil and small pondweed. The average fall water chemistry consists of 1600 us conductivity, 119 alkalinity and a secchi reading of 10 feet. In 2014. Natural muskie stocking began in 2007. In 2017, this lake received 36-12.5 inch muskie. A low-density population of muskie has been created in this lake with fish over 40 inches present. Two muskie from 35 to 38 inches were collected in Lake #4 by electrofishing. There is a 36-inch minimum size limit on muskie in this lake.

George-Located in the Loud Thunder Forest Preserve in Rock Island Co., this 167-acre lake has an average depth of 24 feet, a maximum depth of 62 feet and a shoreline length o 6.3 miles. The park has a boat ramp, boat rentals picnicking and camping. Electric trolling motors only are allowed. Natural muskie stocking began in 1987. In 2017, this lake received 170-12.4 inch muskie fingerlings. There is a 36-inch minimum size limit on muskie in this lake.

Goldeneye-Located in the Pyramid State Park south of Pinckneyville in Perry County. Goldeneye Lake is a strip cut lake located on the Galum Section of Pyramid State Park. The Galum Section is accessed off Panda Bear Road. From State Route 127 head west on Pyatt-Cutler Road. About 6 miles west of Pyramid State Park turn north onto Panda Bear Road. Goldeneye Lake has a 10 HP motor limit. Facilities at this 125 acre lake include a boat launch, docks, and bathrooms. As a result of high water conductivity, electrofishing is not an effective sampling tool at this lake. All information is based on spring trap netting surveys. No muskie were collected in the spring of 2015. If you catch a tagged MUE from Goldeneye Lake DO NOT REMOVE THE TAG. Please contact Shawn Hirst, IDNR Fish Biologist by email at [email protected] or by phone at 618-687-4546 or with the following information: date of catch, length of muskie, and 5-digit tag number. From November 1 through February 28 fishing is allowed in designated areas only, and fishing hours are from ½ hour before sunrise to 2 PM. Originally stocked with muskie in 2002, this lake was last stocked with 36-13-inch long muskie in 2017. There is a 36- inch minimum size limit on muskie at this lake.

Heidecke-Located in Grundy County approximately 1 mile south and 8 miles east of Morris, between Illinois Route 47 and Interstate 55 on Lorenzo/Pine Bluff Road. Formerly a cooling reservoir, Heidecke Lake has 1,955 surface acres of water with 75% of shoreline comprised of rock rip-rapped dikes. A "safe harbor" created by breakwaters was constructed in 1993. No horsepower limitations; maximum speed is 40 mph except in designated "no wake" areas; working gasoline engine required as main propulsion unit; boats under 14 feet are not recommended. A recently refurbished three-lane concrete boat ramp with fully blacktopped 100+ car/trailer parking is available. Boat launch is handicapped accessible. Zebra mussels have been found in Heidecke Lake and boaters should take appropriate measures upon departure. Shore angler access is located on the east side of the lake off Dresden Road with portions of the north, center and east dike open to bank fishing. A handicapped fishing pier is located on the east side of the lake as well. Attempts to introduce aquatic vegetation have generally failed. Bass spawning habitat has been installed at various locations and other habitat enhancement projects are planned. Pure muskellunge are stocked every third year. A special mercury advisory is in effect for smallmouth bass 18 inches and larger which limits consumption to one meal per week for the most sensitive populations. This lake was first stocked in 1987 with natural muskie. Heidecke was last stocked in 2016 with 1,956-10.75 inch muskie. Collection numbers in the 2016 spring trap-netting survey declined somewhat but this belies the fact that Heidecke Lake supports a very strong muskellunge population. Larger fish are becoming more prevalent in spring surveys with fish commonly exceeding 30 lbs. Several fish were also collected during the fall survey, the largest measuring 45 inches. Heidecke Lake is maintained by periodically pumping water from the Illinois River. As a result, the lake supports a variety of fish species which include sunfish (bluegill and green sunfish), common carp, bullheads, freshwater drum and others. Heidecke Lake is supported by a thriving gizzard shad forage base as well as various other minnow species. Round gobies have been recently discovered as well. Open daily from 6:00 a.m. to sunset from April 1 to ten days prior to the opening of the waterfowl season. There is a 48-inch minimum length limit at this lake.

Independence Grove-– Located east of the Des Plaines River north of Buckley Road (Rt. 137) near Libertyville, IL: Lake County. Independence Grove Lake, formerly known as Liberty Pits, was filled with water in 2000. The Lake County Forest Preserve District acquired the area in the low 1990's and opened the facility once concessions, picnic areas, and a swimming beach were completed. Rental boats with electric motors are available through seasonal concessions. No outside boats, canoes or kayaks are allowed. No fish cleaning facilities are available; this is a “Catch and Release Only” lake; for all species. Independence Grove Lake is 110 acres; maximum depth is 50.0 feet, average depth is 7.5 feet, shoreline length is 4.3 miles. Very little aquatic plant “management” takes place in the lake but shoreline work does occur to improve cosmetics and control wind drive, bank, erosion. Muskies were stocked in 1998 (150-11 inch), 1999 (330-12 inch) and 2015 (112-11.9 inch). Large muskie are occasionally still being caught. (2005-50 inch, 2013-52 inch and 2015-50.5 inch).

John Sauk Trail-The 58-acre lake at Johnson-Sauk Trail State Recreation Area in McHenry Co. has a maximum depth of 21 feet. Numerous fish cribs and attractors have been installed to enhance fishing. Fishing is permitted by boat (electric trolling motor only) and along the shoreline. Fishing hours are the same as regular park hours. Night fishing is not allowed. The park is open only to campers after park hours. Originally stocked with muskies in 1988, this lake was last stocked with 60-10.75-inch long muskie in 2016. There is a 36- inch minimum size limit on muskie at this lake.

Kinkaid-Kinkaid Lake is in Jackson County three miles northwest of Murphysboro off State Route 149. There are 3 public boat launching facilities around the Lake. Kinkaid Lake is 2,750 acres in size, has a shoreline length of 82 miles, and a maximum depth of 80 feet. The NW portion of the Lake consists of a 3 mile no wake zone. Kinkaid Lake is one of the premier muskie lakes in Illinois. Many muskies are caught each year in excess of 40 inches. This lake was originally stocked with muskie in 1988. It was last stocked in 2017 with 2,008-12 inch muskies. During the 2016 spring survey 152 muskies were collected up to 45.3 inches in length. Anglers are encouraged to NOT fish for muskies in the warmer summer months as angling mortality is believed to be very high especially for larger fish. Please report tagged muskies to IDNR Fish Biologist Shawn Hirst at 618-687-4546 or email at [email protected]. Anglers reporting a tagged muskie will receive information on the history of that fish. If the tag number is covered with algae simply scrap the algae away with your fingernail or a knife. Please provide tag number (5 digits), length of muskie and catch date. Please do not remove the tag. Maps of 50 permanent Kinkaid Lake fish attractor locations can be obtained via email by sending a request to Shawn Hirst. Kinkaid Lake receives a tremendous amount of recreational boat traffic during the hot summer months especially on the weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowd anglers may consider fishing early in the morning and/or during the week. The upper NW portion of Kinkaid Lake is referred to as the Johnson Creek Area. About 3 miles of this area is a no wake zone that gets very turbid for multiple days after heavy rain events. Threadfin shad are stocked into this lake when available as a supplemental forage base There is a 48-inch minimum length limit at this lake.

McMaster-Lake McMaster is situated within the 2,500 acre Snakeden Hollow State Fish & Wildlife Area. It is located 2 miles southeast of Victoria in Knox County. Access to the lake is 1.7 miles south of State highway 167 on Knox County Highway 28. Lake McMaster is the largest impoundment at Snakeden Hollow State Fish and Wildlife Area. It is 165 acres in size and has a maximum depth of 65 feet. The shoreline length is 7.5 miles and a centerline length of 1.4 miles. The narrow east arm of the lake has a centerline of .9 mile. Lake McMaster is the only impoundment at Snakeden Hollow State Fish and Wildlife Area with an improved boat ramp. Lake McMaster was built in 1978 by Midland Coal

Company as their water supply reservoir. The lake has a diverse habitat which is characterized by very deep water, shallow bars, numerous bays and points, abrupt drop-offs, islands, flooded timber and extensive shallow flats of submerged and emergent aquatic plants. A total of 47 muskie were sampled by the spring trap-net survey in 2016. These fish ranged from 17 to 42.5 inches long. The body condition of these fish was low. In 2017, the muskie harvest regulation was changed from a 1 fish daily harvest limit over 48 inches, to a harvestable slot from 36 to 42 inches, and 48-inch minimum length limit with 1 fish daily harvest limit. This regulation is an attempt to allow anglers to reduce the density of very slow growing male muskie in McMaster Lake. The following data helps explain the current male and female muskie growth rate in McMaster Lake. Muskie have been PIT tagged since 2002 in Lake McMaster. Recent surveys have shown that 58% of the males were from 36 to 40 inches in length, while only 11% of the females were from 36 to 40 inches in length. A triennial stocking is now scheduled to maintain a moderate density of healthy muskie. This lake was originally stocked with muskie in 1991. It was last stocked in 2015 with 15-139-11.9 inch muskies. There is a 48-inch minimum length limit at this lake.

Mallard-This 89-acre lake is located Hanover Park in DuPage Co. Boat rentals are available with electric motors only. There are two handicapped accessible fishing piers and carry-in boats are allowed. This lake was originally stocked with muskie in 2006. It was last stocked in 2016 with 300- 10.75 inch muskies. There is a 48-inch minimum length limit at this lake.

Mill Creek-Located approximately 8 miles west of Marshall, in Clark County, this lake has a surface area of 731 acres, with a maximum depth of 60 feet, and an average depth of 22 feet. Public boat launching facilities are available and the Clark County Park District (CCPD) collects a boating access fee. Additional species of aquatic plants have been established throughout the lake to reduce shoreline erosion and stabilize habitat. Fish attractors have been constructed and placed by the CCPD for greater fishing success. Moderate fertility levels slightly reduce the overall production of fish in this lake. Muskie in excess of 48 inches have been caught by fishermen and in surveys. Fishing quality is rated fair-good for 2016. Note: Although often maligned due to their large size and teeth, muskie can be a benefit to the entire fishery on Mill Creek Lake. The number stocked is relatively low in an attempt to establish a trophy fishery. A recent muskie diet study in Illinois lakes indicates that when gizzard shad are present, like Mill Creek Lake, muskies feed exclusively on shad. Bass are never a preferred or abundant food item. Muskie predation on large adult gizzard shad is highly desirable on Mill Creek Lake to thin this size group. White suckers are a valuable diet item to enhance the growth of large muskie. Additional research indicates that lakes stocked with muskie experience improvements in bass numbers and white crappie growth rate compared to lakes not stocked with muskie. This lake was originally stocked with muskie in 1999. It was last stocked in 2017 with 391-12.5 inch muskies. There is a 42-inch minimum length limit at this lake.

Mingo-Lake Mingo is located 8 miles northwest of Danville in Kennekuk Cove County Park and is operated by the Vermilion County Conservation District. Lake Mingo is 170 acres and was built in 1980 and was renovated in 1983. The lake has a maximum depth of 38 feet and an average depth of 13.5 feet. There is a 9.9 horsepower limit, boat decals are required, and there is one boat launch. This lake was originally stocked with muskie in 2002 It was last stocked in 2015 with 172-11.9 inch muskies. There is a 48-inch minimum length limit at this lake.

Otter- Otter Lake is named after Otter Creek which was dammed to provide flood control, water-based recreation, and potable water for surrounding towns. This Lake was built in 1968, and has provided wonderful fishing opportunities since. Located 6 miles west of Girard, IL. in north central Macoupin County. Area-765 acres; shoreline length- 39 miles; watershed size-12,985 acres; maximum depth-51 feet; average depth-20 feet. Otter Lake has a 115 HP motor size limit. There is a single boat ramp at mid-lake on the north side of Palmyra blacktop. The site has a concession stand/bait shop, campground, and picnic areas. During the 2015 survey we boated 14 Muskie measuring from 30.7 inches to 39.4 inches, and weighing up to 18.7 lbs. 13 fish were up to 32 inches, 11 fish reached 34 inches, and 5 fish topped 36 inches in total length. This lake was originally stocked with muskie in 1987. It was last stocked in 2017 with 765-12.4 inch muskies. There is a 48-inch minimum length limit at this lake.

Pana-Pana Lake is located east of the City of Pana in Christian and Shelby Counties. These two lakes combine to cover 219 surface acres and consist of a separate older upper lake (69 acres) and newer lower lake (144 acres). The maximum depth is 36 feet with an average depth of 13.7 feet. A public boat launch is available only on the lower lake. The City of Pana collects a boating access fee. Restaurants, convenience stores, and hotels are available. Numbers of muskies collected have been highly variable, with none collected in 2014 and eight in 2012. Anglers have reported catching large fish. Fishing quality is rated as fair for 2016. Originally stocked with tigers (hybrid) muskies in 1987, pure muskie have been stocked since 2000. In 2017 this lake received 159-12.5 inch naturals. There is a 48-inch minimum length limit at this lake.

Pierce-Located in Rock Cut State Park in Winnebago Co. This 172-acre lake has an average depth of 11.19 feet, a maximum depth of 36 feet and 4.9 miles of shoreline. The lake was impounded in 1960 by damming Willow Creek. Pierce has a two-lane boat ramp, parking a no HP restrictions except that motors over 10 HP are no wake only. Boat rental, picnicking, bait, camping and food are available. The largest muskie sampled in 2015 was a 39-inch female that weighed 20.5 lbs. Pure muskie have been stocked since 1987. In 2017 this lake received 167-12.4 inch naturals. There is a 48-inch minimum length limit at this lake.

Prairie- Located in the Jim Edgar Panther Creek State and Fish and Wildlife Area, 8 miles north of Ashland, 40 miles northwest of Springfield. In the early 1990’s the Department of Natural Resources purchased 15,575 acres of ground from Commonwealth Edison. Prairie Lake was constructed in 1999. It has 210 acres, a maximum depth of 45 feet, an average depth of 18 feet, is steep sided, has extensive beds of aquatic vegetation and woody cover, and is very clear with visibilities of 10-14 feet. The muskie population is well established with surveys producing up to 6 fish per hour of electrofishing or net set. Muskie were first stocked in 1999, therefore there is a chance 50 inch+ fish are present in the lake. Anglers report fish of that size, although the largest muskie ever surveyed measured 45 inches. Muskie in Prairie Lake tend to be in less than desirable body condition, which is most likely due to the lack of a strong forage base. Gizzard shad stockings began in 2010 to supplement the predator forage base. In 2017 this lake received 51,957 muskie fry, which were placed in a rearing pond. The lake will be stocked when the surviving fingerlings are harvested from the pond.

Schuy-Rush-Located in Schuyler County in west-central Illinois, just off U.S. Rt. 67 between Rushville and Beardstown Description: Impoundment, 225 acres 40 feet deep, average depth 14.0 feet, 9.3 miles of shoreline. Currently used for recreation and a supplemental water supply, the lake was constructed in 1975 as part of a PL 566 project. One boat ramp halfway up the western shore, some shoreline fishing Boating Regulations, no horsepower restriction. Amenities: camping, picnic and playground areas. This lake was originally stocked with muskie in 2006. It was last stocked in 2016 with 201-10.75 inch muskies. There is a 36-inch minimum length limit at this lake.

Shabbona-Located in Dekalb Co. this 318-acre lake was impounded in 1974. It has an average depth of 17 feet and a maximum depth of 40 feet. Old road beds and standing timber create a unique fishing experience. A two-lane concrete boat ramp, boat rentals, camping, picnicking and food are available. Boat motors are limited to a 10 HP maximum, however, an 18-acre upper fishing area is a no-wake zone where only electric trolling motors or rowing is permitted. Spring trap-netting in 2015 yielded muskie up to 46.3 inches (female) and 28 lbs. Average size fish was 35 inches and 13 lbs. This lake was originally stocked with muskie in 1987. It was last stocked in 2017 with 319-12.4 inch muskies. There is a 48-inch minimum length limit at this lake.

Shelbyville- Lake Shelbyville is located in Shelby and Moultrie Counties in east-central Illinois. This lake is 11,100 acres, with a maximum depth of 65 feet, and an average depth of 18 feet. Numerous public boat launching facilities are available, with a fee assessed on developed U.S. Army Corps of Engineers access area boat ramps, and free access on IDNR state park or USACE gravel boat ramps. An annual fish attractor project is coordinated by the USACE in coordination with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR). Lake Shelbyville is home to at least 32 species of fish. In addition to the lake, a popular fishery exists in the Kaskaskia River just below the spillway and in both the West Okaw and Kaskaskia Rivers upstream of the lake. Many other recreational opportunities exist on or near the lake, including camping, swimming, hiking, and more. Only one musky, a recently stocked fish, was collected in the 2015 standard fall fish population survey. This is a lower catch rate than 2014, 2013 and 2012, when 3, 7, and 11 fish were collected, respectively. Despite recent increases in the number of muskie stocked, there has a steady decline in the catch rates in population surveys on Lake Shelbyville. Although angler catch rates for muskie have improved below the spillway, catch rates on the lake were poor in 2012 through 2015 for most anglers. Two muskies were collected in the two stocking success surveys, one just stocked (13 inches) and the other 34 inches. For unknown reasons, fishing prospects for muskie in 2016 are expected to remain poor on the lake for the number of fish available and size structure, but still good to excellent for size and number below the spillway. Gizzard shad are the primary forage, were exceptionally abundant, and had a wide range of sizes in 2015. This should help improve the growth and body condition of piscivorous (fish-eating) species. This lake was originally stocked with muskie in 1987. It was last stocked in 2017 with 12,393-3 inch, 5,192-12 inch and 5,923-12.5 inch muskies. There is a 48-inch minimum length limit at this lake.

Spring (North)-North Spring Lake is a 578 acre body of water located 6 miles north and west of Manito, Illinois, adjacent to the Illinois River in Tazwell Co. North Spring Lake is an elongated backwater lateral marsh of the Illinois River. It was separated by a high levee from the Illinois River in 1916. The North Lake was separated from the South Lake in 1978 by a stop log structure and a spillway for discharge water. Spring Lake currently has a 25 HP limit for outboard motors. The main access is via the Spring Lake blacktop road. A single lane boat ramp is located along the causeway which crosses Spring Lake. An additional gravel ramp is located adjacent to the Sky Ranch blacktop road bridge crossing of North Spring Lake. North Spring Lake is a shallow, very fertile backwater. It has a 75% coverage of aquatic vegetation after April and until November of each year. The lake is closed to boat fishing one week prior to regular waterfowl season, and until the end of waterfowl season each year. Spring Lake today has an average depth of 2.9 feet. The majority of weed coverage now consists of Eurasian milfoil, lily and lotus. The tremendous spring recharge from the bed of the lake amounts to 52 acre feet a day, creating very cold water temperatures under the insulating layer of vegetation for the majority of the summer months. This is a unique situation and only occurs in Spring Lake within the State of Illinois. North spring Lake was rehabilitated in the 1980s to remove an undesirable carp-gizzard shad fish population. As a result of the rehabilitation, an excellent fish population resulted. Water clarity improved and aquatic weeds flourished. As part of an effort to develop a brood source for muskie, Spring Lake has been stocked with that species for 25 years. Muskie from Iowa, Missouri and Wisconsin have been stocked into this lake throughout the years which has evolved into a genetic mix of strains. Muskie are trap netted at the lake and spawned at the Jake Wolf Fish Hatchery in March of each year. A total of over half a million eggs are produced for state-wide muskie needs each year. The muskie population is being continuously monitored using electronic tags. This marking program has been ongoing since 1999. As part of an effort to reduce coverage of Eurasian milfoil (an exotic invasive plant), North Spring Lake is treated with DMA4-2, 4D each year. We know quite a lot about the size structure and age of the population, as well as growth. It appears that growth of female fish is excellent when compared to nation-wide populations. Growth of male muskie is in the normal range when making a similar comparison. There is a big difference in the length at age between sexes! A 32-inch female is usually 4 years old, whereas a 32-inch male is 5 years old, on average. North Spring Lake is stocked every third year at a rate of between 2 and 3 fish per acre. It has been observed that significant cannibalism occurs if muskie are stocked every year. Young muskie are especially vulnerable to 1 and 2 year old male muskie at North Spring Lake. Fishing for muskie on North Spring Lake is a challenge. The water temperatures rise quickly and usually result in fish feeding actively in late March. Aquatic vegetation becomes thick and hard to fish no later than May 15th of each year and lasts until the lake closes for regular waterfowl season. The narrow window of opportunity between the middle of March and mid-May results in some excellent fishing. The fish are then refuged by the thick vegetation until the following year. Sometimes fishing the holes in the vegetation in June is quite effective. Sometimes, late winter is excellent muskie fishing if there is open water. There are a number of large fish in the population available to muskie anglers. No fuel or services are available, however, camping and food is. This lake was originally stocked with muskie in 1987 and last stocked in 2017 with 84,124 natural fry. There is a 48-inch minimum size limit at this lake.

Sterling- Located east of I-294 north of Rt 173 in Van Patton Woods Forest Preserve near Wadsworth. Sterling Lake, formerly known as Vulcan Gravel Pits, was constructed in 1939. The lake is located adjacent to the Des Plaines River and is connected via a tube with a hinged gate so water can flow-in during high water events. The Lake County Forest Preserve District acquired the area in 1974 with emphasis on providing recreational fishing opportunities. Sterling Lake: 74 acres, maximum depth 23.0 feet., average depth 14 feet, shoreline length is 2.3 miles, crushed limestone multi-use path surrounds the perimeter, handicap accessible fishing piers, gravel ramp for launching a canoe/kayak or electric motor only car-top boats. No concession facilities are available. No fish cleaning station is available. In 2013, 5 muskie were collected in one hour of electrofishing. Fish ranged from 31 to 34 inches in length, the biggest weighing 12.6 lbs. Muskie have been periodically stocking in Sterling Lake since 1990 so the possibility of trophy size fish exists. Sterling was last stocked in 2017 with 150-10.75 inch muskies. There is a 42-inch minimum length limit at this lake.

Storey-Lake Storey is located in Knox County at the northwest edge of Galesburg with access to the lake off U.S. Route 150. Lake Storey is a medium sized watershed type impoundment owned by the City of Galesburg and managed for fishing by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Lake Storey is 132.5 acres in size and has a maximum depth of 32 feet. It has a shoreline length of 5.8 miles and is 1.5 miles in length from east to west. A boat ramp and parking lot is provided on each end of the lake. Other facilities provided at Lake Storey Park include: camping, swimming, golf, picnic areas and a

2.65-mile paved trail. Lake Storey was constructed in 1928-29 by the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad as their water supply reservoir. In 1952, the lake and surrounding land was gifted to the City of Galesburg for the development of Lake Storey Park. The water level at Lake Storey is drawn down annually 5 to 6 feet in early September as a major fish management practice. The annual fall drawdown increases the predation of small fish, which enhances the growth rates of both predator and prey species. A total of 22 muskie were sampled by the spring trap-net survey in 2016. These fish ranged from 31.5 to 42.5 inches long. The body condition of these fish was low. A moderate density of quality size muskie are present. 43 muskie have been recaptured with PIT tag data from Lake Storey since 2002. An annual stocking is now scheduled to maintain a moderate density of healthy muskie. This lake was originally stocked with muskie in 1987. It was last stocked in 2017 with 13512.5 inch muskies. There is a 42-inch minimum length limit at this lake.

Super-Located south of Pinckneyville in Perry County. Super Lake is a strip cut lake located on the Captain Section of the Pyramid State Park. At 230, acres Super Lake is the largest lake on the Arch Portion of Pyramid State Park. There is a concrete boat launch, floating docks and bathroom facilities at this lake. As a result of high water conductivity, electrofishing is not an effective sampling tool at this lake. All information is based on spring trap netting surveys. IDNR collected 20 muskie from this lake in the spring of 2015 with the largest measuring 38 inches in length. If you catch a tagged MUE from Super Lake DO NOT REMOVE THE TAG. Please contact Shawn Hirst, IDNR Fisheries Biologist by phone at 618-687-4546 or email at [email protected] with the following information: date of catch, length of muskie, and tag number (5 digits). If the tag number is covered with algae simply scrap the algae away with your fingernail or a knife. Anyone providing a tag number will receive the history of that particular fish. From November 1 through February 28 fishing is allowed in designated areas only, and fishing hours are from ½ hour before sunrise to 2 PM. Originally stocked with muskie in 2008, this lake was last stocked with 162-13-inch long muskie in 2017. There is a 48-inch minimum size limit on muskie at this lake.

Wolf-Southeast of Chicago, east of Avenue “O” at 130th St. in the Hegwisch neighborhood Prior to 1947 Wolf Lake was a small, shallow, glacial lake situated in a wetland area between the confluence of the Grand Calumet and Calumet Rivers. Since that time however, the construction of a low level dam and levees from extensive dredging operations have changed the lake’s appearance. The lake and its fishery have developed into a haven for fishermen enjoying some quiet time in this highly urbanized area and offers the chance to catch some quality size fish. Illinois’ portion of Wolf Lake consists of 390 of the acres of water and is managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. Fishing ranks as one of the most popular recreational activities at William Powers. Maximum depth of Wolf is 15 feet and average depth is 5 feet. There are 3 developed boat ramps in the Park but no concession or fish cleaning facilities available. The last survey was in 2012, evaluating the fisheries in NW Pool and Stateline Pool; two gallons of Reward were applied in the Office Lagoon to manage Eurasian milfoil and lily pads; in 2013, the IEPA requested fish flesh contaminant samples as part their Statewide monitoring program. Fishing access reduced during Waterfowl Hunting Season. No wake for motors larger than 10 HP. Originally stocked in 1987 with tigers (hybrid) muskie, this lake was last stocked with 755-10.75-inch naturals by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources in 1999. There is a 36-inch minimum size limit on muskie at this lake.

2017 Illinois Muskie Stocking Report Summarized by Ray Thompson

Note: This article is based, in part, on the 2017 Jake Wolf Hatchery report. It also includes 450-12 to 14 inch Wisconsin strain fingerlings purchased by the Fox River Chapter of Muskies, Inc. from the Gollon Fish Farm in Dodgeville, WI.

A total of 29 Illinois bodies of water were stocked with 20,814-12”-13” muskie fingerlings, produced at the Jake Wolf Hatchery, by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources in 2017.

The hatchery also produced and stocked a total of 360,819 surplus fry (330,104), and under- sized fingerlings (7,580-1.5”), (12,393-3”), and (10,742-5”). On June 22, a total of 26,245 -5” fingerlings were stocked into three rearing ponds. The fry stocked into a rearing pond at Prairie Lake will be harvested and stocked later this fall.

Table 1 summarizes the pond production, which averaged 79 percent, as compared to almost 84 percent last year. Additionally, 525 fish reached a 13” average while waiting to be harvested from the last pond and were stocked on September 1.

Table 1 Pond Date Number Size at Date Number Size at Yield Number Stocked Stocked Stocking Harvested Harvested Harvest % 20 6/22 8,700 5” 8/24 7,200 11.97 82.8 21 6/22 8,800 5” 8/28 6,572 12.4 74.7 22 6/22 8.745 5” 8/28 6,993 12.5 80.0

Table 2 details the individual lake stockings from all sources.

Table 2 Body of Water Numbe Size Date Remarks r Argyle 93 12.5” 8/31 Canton 255 12.5” 8/31 Canvasback 36 13” 9/1 Pyramid SP Carlton 77 12.4” 8/30 Double T 66 12.5” 8/29 Fulton Co. Goose Mgt. Area Eagle 291 13” 9/1 Evergreen 927 12.4 8/30 Fox Chain 10,742 5” 6/29 Fox Chain 2,008 12.4” 8/29 Fox Chain 450 12”-14” 10/6 FRV-WI strain-Gollon Fish Farm Fulton-#3 90 12.5” 8/31 Fulton Co. Camping & Rec. Area Fulton-#4 36 12.5” 8/31 Fulton Co. Camping & Rec. Area George 170 12.4” 8/30 Goldeneye 36 13” 9/1 Pyramid SP

Hennipen- 194,02 Hopper 3 Fry 4/7 Hennipen- 7,580 Hopper 1.5” 5/4 Johnson 602 12.4” 8/29 Banner Marsh Kinkaid 2,008 12” 8/24 Mill Creek 391 12.5” 8/31 Otter 765 12.4” 8/30 Pana 150 12.5” 8/31 Pierce 167 12.4” 8/30 Prairie 51,957 Fry 4/7 (rearing pond) Shabbona 319 12.4 8/30 Shelbyville 12,393 3” 5/18 Shelbyville 5,192 12” 8/24 Shelbyville 5,923 12.5” 8/29 Shovel 200 12.4” 8/29 Banner Marsh Spring 279 12.5” 8/31 McDonough Co. Spring (North) 84,124 Fry 4/8 Tazwell Co. Staunton 84 12.4” 8/30 Storey 135 12.5” 8/31 Super 162 13” 9/1 Pyramid SP Wheel 352 12.4” 8/29 Banner Marsh

Joke of the Month

If you have a good fishing joke you think the rest of the club would enjoy send them to Dan Johnson at [email protected]. This month’s joke was submitted by Dan Johnson.

Member Profile

December’s Member Profile comes to us from new member Jim Griffin. If you know anyone interested or would like to volunteer someone contact Dan Johnson at [email protected].

Name: Jim Griffin

Nickname: Jim

Home Town: Newton, Iowa

Current Town: Cape Girardeau

Occupation or how you spend the day: Retired Banker. Daily Golfer.

How did you get started Muskie Fishing: Owned a lake cabin in northern Minnesota and trips to Canada.

How long have you been Muskie Fishing: 55 years.

How often do you target Muskies when fishing: Whenever available.

What interests you most about Muskie fishing? The unpredictability.

Favorite lake(s): Big Sand near Park Rapids, Minnesota, Lake Vermillion in Minnesota, Little Lake Vermillion near Sioux Lookout, Ontario, Lake Thunderhead near Unionville, Missouri for crappie. Kinkaid looks like it would be a great lake to fish during the off season.

Favorite lures: Bucktails, Crankbaits, Chatterbaits.

What do you like most about our chapter: Members are very accessible.

Any interesting fishing stories you would like to share: Yes.

Additional: I moved to Cape after living on Lake Thunderhead for the last 15 years. I sold all my boats but kept all my fishing gear. I live about 45 minutes from the Kinkaid Marina. I am available to go fishing for any kind of fish any time. I have owned all kinds of boats and fished all my life for all species. I can back a trailer. I can load a boat on a trailer. I can drive a boat. Given five minutes to study, I can run most depth finders. I can buy gas. I can bring lunch. I enjoy making all kinds of fishing lures and fly tying. I can make about any lure you would like to try. I was thinking that if a member was in the situation of not wanting to go fishing alone, I could be there in 45 minutes and would have all my own gear and be helpful.

Email: [email protected]

Don’t forget, our website is: http://www.shawneemuskiehunters.org. There is a lot of good information there. If you haven’t checked out the Members Only section you should. If you don’t have a username and password for the Members Only section contact Renee at [email protected] and she’ll hook you up.

2017 Officers

President Jim Beaty (618) 971 7806 [email protected] Vice President Larry Owens (812) 449 2353 Treasurer Ken Ryder (618) 466 8220 ken [email protected] Secretary Dan Johnson (618) 830 7163 [email protected] Chapter #4 Representative Newsletter Editor Magazine Reporter Walt Krause (618) 972 5584 [email protected]

Membership Director Ray Wheelock (618) 234 7192 [email protected]

Youth Director Bob Kerans (217) 414 0093 [email protected]

Habitat Director Jim Beaty (618) 971 7806 [email protected] Walt Krause (618) 972 5584 [email protected] Web Master Renee Johnson (618) 655 0640 [email protected] Media Director

2017 Committees

Fundraising: Ken Ryder

Tournaments: John Wright

Youth: Bob Kerans (Chair), Ray & Katie Wheelock, Dan & Renee Johnson

Sport Shows: Walt Krause

Lake Cleanup: Walt Krause & Jim Beaty (Co-Chairs)

Social Events: Shannon Beaty-Dingus & Renee Johnson (Co-chairs)

Lake St Clair Outing: Ken Ryder

High School Tournament: Jim Beaty

Guide for Day: Ken Ryder

Veterans Day: Ken Ryder

Chapter Challunge: Jim Beaty

Border Wars: Jim Beaty

2017-2018 Calendar December 1. 2, 3 Second Deer Season December 9, 10 Shawnee Muskie Hunters Winter Trolling Outing, Kinkaid Lake January 5, 6 and 7, Let's Go Fishing Show, Collinsville January 27, Shawnee Muskie Hunters Winter Meeting, Cabela’s Hazelwood, MO, 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM February 17, SMH Annual Awards Banquet, Swansea Community Ctr (Norman Lehr), Swansea, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM February 24, SMH – Pomme Chapter Challunge, Kinkaid Lake (Bunkhouse 23, 24) March 10, Back-up date for Chapter Challunge with Pomme on Kinkaid Lake (Bunkhouse 9, 10) March 17-18, IMTT Jake Wolf Memorial, Spring Lake March 24, Kinkaid Lake Cleanup (Bunkhouse 23, 24) 8:00 AM – Noon (Free Lunch at Marina) March 24, Shawnee Muskie Hunters Crappie Outing (after Lake Cleanup) and Fish Fry at the Bunkhouse, 7:00 PM April 1, Easter April 14-15, IMTT Spring Classic, Kinkaid Lake April 21 & 22, Shawnee Muskie Hunters Spring Guide for Day, Kinkaid Lake (Bunkhouse 20, 21) April 28 & 29, Shawnee Muskie Hunters Spring Fling Tournament, Kinkaid Lake May 13, Mother’s Day June 2, Shawnee Muskie Hunters Kid's Fishing Day, Murphysboro Lake (Bunkhouse 1) June 2, IMTT Gregg Tichacek Memorial, Lake McMaster June 9 & 10, Shawnee Outing to Banner Marsh (Route 24 N of Banner, IL) 25 HP limit – Wheel, Johnson & Shovel lakes July 27, 28, Shawnee Muskie Hunters Trolling Outing, Lake St Clair, Ontario August 18 – 25, Eagle Lake Ontario Chapter Outing August 25 – September 1, Gil Hamm Outing, Red Wing Lodge, LOTW, Morson, Ontario September TBD, Shawnee Muskie Hunters Salmon Outing, Ludington, MI September 15, 16 Shawnee Muskie Hunters Prairie Lake Outing September 22, Quad County Hawg Hunters @ Lake Evergreen September 29 & 30, IMTT Fall Classic, Prairie Lake October 6, Shawnee Muskie Hunters 2017 Planning Meeting Saturday, 2018 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM, Bunkhouse October 6 & 7 - SMH Fall Guide for Day, Kinkaid Lake (Bunkhouse 5, 6) October 14 (Sunday), 5th Annual IL High School Muskie Tournament, Prairie Lake October 20 & 21, Shawnee Muskie Hunters Fall Brawl Tournament, Kinkaid Lake October 27 & 28, IMTT Championship, TBD November 10, Shawnee Muskie Hunters Annual Veterans Outing, Kinkaid Lake (Bunkhouse 9, 10) November 16, 17, 18 First Deer Season November 29, 30 and December 1. 2 Second Deer Season December 8, 9 Shawnee Muskie Hunters Winter Trolling Outing, Kinkaid Lake (Bunkhouse 7, 8)